Nikon D5100 vs Nikon D70s

On this page, we are comparing the Nikon D5100 versus Nikon D70s, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Advanced DSLR and both of them are designed by Nikon. There is a substantial difference among the sensor resolutions of the D5100 (16MP) and D70s (6MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The D5100 was brought out 6 years later than the D70s and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Nikon D5100 being a Compact SLR camera and the Nikon D70s being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a concise overview of how the D5100 scores against the D70s with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D5100 & Nikon D70s. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon D5100 Gallery & Nikon D70s Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The Nikon D5100 provides external measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 79mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.1") along with a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs) and the Nikon D70s has sizing of 140mm x 111mm x 78mm (5.5" x 4.4" x 3.1") with a weight of 679 grams (1.50 lbs).

Compare the Nikon D5100 versus Nikon D70s in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the D5100 against the D70s.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the D5100 and D70s is 66 and 61 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing simply by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic below should give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the D5100 and D70s.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You can anticipate the Nikon D5100 to provide you with greater detail having its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger D5100 will have an edge in sensor innovation.